Planning a trip with Southwest Airlines and wondering about those all-important checked bag costs? You've come to the right place! While Southwest was famously known for its "Bags Fly Free" policy for decades, that era has largely come to an end for most travelers. Understanding the current costs and rules is crucial to avoid any surprises at the airport. Let's dive deep into how much it costs to check a bag at Southwest Airlines, with a clear, step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Unpack the Baggage Fee Mystery?
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty, let's establish a key point: Southwest Airlines has introduced new baggage fees for most fares booked on or after May 28, 2025. If you booked your flight before this date, your original "Bags Fly Free" policy for two checked bags might still apply. Always double-check your specific reservation details. But for the vast majority of new bookings, these fees are now a reality.
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| How Much Does It Cost To Check A Bag At Southwest Airlines |
Step 2: Understanding the Standard Checked Bag Fees
For flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025, here's what you can generally expect for standard checked bags:
Sub-heading: The First and Second Bag
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The first checked bag will cost you $35.
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The second checked bag will cost you $45.
This brings Southwest's baggage policy largely in line with other major U.S. airlines. It's a significant shift, so budgeting for these fees is now an essential part of your travel planning.
Sub-heading: What if I Need a Third Bag (or More)?
If you're planning a longer trip or simply need more luggage, be prepared for a steeper increase.
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For the third checked bag and any additional bags thereafter, the fee is a substantial $150 per bag.
Step 3: Decoding Weight and Size Limits (and Their Associated Fees)
Beyond the number of bags, the weight and size of your luggage are critical factors in determining the final cost. Overweight and oversized bags incur additional charges, which can quickly add up.
Sub-heading: Standard Weight and Size Allowances
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Standard Weight Limit: Each checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (22.7 kg).
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Standard Size Limit: The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag should not exceed 62 inches (157.5 cm). Remember to include handles and wheels in your measurements!
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
Sub-heading: Overweight Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the 50-pound limit, you'll face an overweight fee:
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For bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds (23 kg - 31.8 kg), there's a fee of $100 per bag.
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For bags weighing between 71 and 100 pounds (31.9 kg - 45.4 kg), the fee jumps to $200 per bag.
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Important Note: Bags exceeding 100 pounds will generally not be accepted as checked baggage and may need to be shipped as cargo.
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Sub-heading: Oversized Baggage Fees
If your bag exceeds the 62-inch linear dimension limit, you'll encounter an oversized fee:
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For bags larger than 62 inches up to 80 inches (157.5 cm - 203 cm), there's a fee of $200 per bag.
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Crucial Detail: If a bag is both oversized and overweight, you generally only pay one of the higher applicable fees, not both. However, this is for standard overweight/oversize categories. Always verify with Southwest if your bag falls into multiple penalty categories.
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Step 4: Exploring Exceptions and Ways to Get Free Checked Bags (Still!)
While the "Bags Fly Free" policy for everyone is largely gone, Southwest still offers exceptions for certain traveler categories. Don't despair! You might still be eligible for free checked bags.
Sub-heading: Elite Status Holders
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Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members: If you've achieved this top-tier status in Southwest's loyalty program, you are entitled to two free checked bags. This is a fantastic perk for frequent flyers.
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Rapid Rewards A-List Members: As an A-List member, you will receive one free checked bag.
Sub-heading: Business Select Fare
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Travelers who book a Business Select fare will continue to receive two free checked bags. This is Southwest's highest fare class, offering various benefits, including the checked bag allowance.
Sub-heading: Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers
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If you hold a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card, you and up to eight additional passengers on the same reservation can enjoy one free checked bag. This is a significant benefit for cardholders, so be sure to include your Rapid Rewards account number at the time of booking.
Sub-heading: Active Duty Military Personnel
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Active duty U.S. military personnel with a current, valid military ID are generally exempt from the two-piece baggage limit and will not be subject to excess, oversize, or overweight baggage charges, provided each piece does not exceed 100 pounds in weight and 80 inches in size. This is a generous and well-deserved benefit.
Sub-heading: Inter-island Hawaii Travel
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
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Hawaii residents traveling between the islands may also have different baggage allowances; it's always best to check directly with Southwest for specific details on these routes.
Step 5: Practical Tips for Managing Your Baggage Costs
Now that you know the costs, here are some actionable tips to help you manage your baggage expenses when flying Southwest:
Sub-heading: Weigh Your Bags at Home
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Invest in a luggage scale. This simple tool can save you significant money by helping you avoid overweight bag fees. Weigh your bags before heading to the airport and redistribute items if necessary.
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Sub-heading: Pack Light and Smart
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Can you reduce the number of outfits or bulky items? Consider if you truly need everything you're packing. Rolling clothes can also save space.
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Wear your heaviest items on the plane (e.g., bulky boots or jackets) to reduce bag weight.
Sub-heading: Consider Shipping Your Luggage
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For very heavy or numerous bags, especially for longer trips, consider using a luggage shipping service. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than paying multiple airline baggage fees, and it offers the convenience of having your bags delivered directly to your destination.
Sub-heading: Utilize Carry-On Allowance
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Southwest still allows one carry-on bag and one personal item free of charge. Make the most of this! Your carry-on bag can be up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches, and your personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) should fit under the seat in front of you. Pack essentials and heavier items in your carry-on if possible.
Sub-heading: Check Your Fare Type and Status
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Always confirm the baggage allowance associated with your specific fare type (Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus, Anytime, Business Select).
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If you're a Rapid Rewards member, log in to your account and verify your A-List or A-List Preferred status to understand your entitlements.
Step 6: What to Do at the Airport
Once you're at the airport, the process for checking bags with Southwest is straightforward.
Sub-heading: Self-Tagging Kiosks
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
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At many airports, Southwest offers self-tagging kiosks. This allows you to print your own bag tags, pay any applicable fees, and then drop your bag off with a Southwest agent. This can save you time.
Sub-heading: Ticket Counter Check-In
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Alternatively, you can always check your bags at the airport ticket counter with a Southwest agent. They will assist with weighing, tagging, and collecting any fees.
Sub-heading: Arrive Early
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Allow sufficient time to check your bags, especially if you anticipate paying fees or if you're traveling during peak hours. Bags checked 45 minutes or less before the scheduled departure time are considered "Late Check," and while Southwest will try to get them on your flight, they won't assume delivery charges if they don't arrive with you. For international flights, check-in minimums are often longer (e.g., 60-75 minutes before departure).
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of Southwest's updated baggage policy, you can confidently estimate and manage the cost of checking your bags, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about Southwest Airlines baggage fees, starting with "How to," along with their quick answers:
How to avoid checked bag fees on Southwest Airlines?
You can avoid checked bag fees by being a Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred member (two free bags), a Rapid Rewards A-List member (one free bag), a Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmember (one free bag), booking a Business Select fare (two free bags), or being active duty U.S. military.
How to check if my baggage is oversized for Southwest?
To check if your baggage is oversized, measure its total linear dimensions (length + width + height). If it exceeds 62 inches (157.5 cm), it's considered oversized and will incur a $200 fee up to 80 inches.
How to determine if my bag is overweight for Southwest?
Weigh your bag on a luggage scale. If it's between 51-70 pounds (23-31.8 kg), it's subject to a $100 fee. If it's between 71-100 pounds (31.9-45.4 kg), it's subject to a $200 fee. Bags over 100 pounds are generally not accepted.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
How to pay for checked bags at Southwest Airlines?
You can pay for checked bags at the airport using self-tagging kiosks (if available) or at the ticket counter with a Southwest agent. Southwest does not allow prepaying for checked luggage online.
How to pack efficiently to minimize baggage costs on Southwest?
Pack only essentials, roll your clothes to save space, consider wearing your heaviest items, and maximize your free carry-on and personal item allowance.
How to check baggage for international flights with Southwest?
For international flights, you will generally be required to check your luggage at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter upon arrival at the airport. Curbside check-in is not usually available for international itineraries.
How to track my checked bag with Southwest Airlines?
Southwest offers digital bag tracking services. You can typically track your bags through their mobile app or website once they've been checked in.
How to get an exception for sporting equipment on Southwest?
Most sporting equipment can be checked as part of your standard checked baggage allowance, provided it adheres to size and weight limits. However, some larger items (like bicycles or surfboards) may incur a $200 charge. Always check Southwest's specific policy for your type of equipment.
How to know if my flight was booked under the old "Bags Fly Free" policy?
The new baggage fees apply to flights booked or voluntarily changed on or after May 28, 2025. If your flight was booked before this date and not subsequently changed, the previous policy of two free checked bags (up to 50 lbs and 62 inches) should still apply. Always refer to your original booking confirmation.
How to contact Southwest Airlines for specific baggage questions?
You can contact Southwest Airlines' customer service through their official website's Help Center, by phone, or via social media for any specific or complex baggage questions not covered here.
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